The Sword and Laser discussion

The descriptions of the house in this book reminded me strongly of the Gormenghast books by Mervyn Peake (Titus Groan, Gormenghast, Titus Alone). This is a trilogy of Gothic fantasy novels set in a huge, crumbling, mysterious castle. Peake wrote them in the post-war years and, while he’s much less well-known than his contemporary Tolkien, I think these books have seeped into British literary culture. I’d be amazed to discover that Clarke hadn’t read them as the mood of Piranesi feels so reminiscent of Gormenghast. There’s even a huge flood in the second book.
Has anyone else read these books? Do you agree?

Unfortunately Gormenghast has defeated me soundly, never could finish Titus Groan....

Might be an English thing

Yeah, I also got a major Gormenghast vibe -- sort of like Gormenghast except written by George MacDonald.

Yes defiantly an echo of Gormenghast here but for me it felt more influenced my one of the worlds in Tad William 'Otherland' series. There is a virtual world that is basically an endless house with no outside.

I think you're onto something Ruth. I too thought of Gormenghast quite a bit while reading this book.

Some sections also brought Lavondyss to mind, more in tone than substance.